GREENVILLE, South Carolina (CNN) - Former Sen. Fred Thompson was just introduced to the crowd here by Rep. Gresham Barrett, who represents the 3rd District of South Carolina.

The campaign then played an upbeat, slickly produced video called "The Hunt for Red November," a reference to one of the senator's film roles. It played up the presidential hopefuls biography as a Tennessee native, federal prosecutor and Washington outsider, with references to Ronald Reagan and Barry Goldwater.

Thompson then came on stage to loud applause and country music.

"I'm glad to be in South Carolina. I feel closer to home, not only geographically, but in all the other ways," Thompson said.

Why has nobody called Thompson out on his tremendous gaffe the other day.

He said this after being asked if it was wise to invade Iraq without dismantling al-Qaeda:

"It's not an either/or situation; sometimes you don't have a choice. Saddam Hussein was on the cusp as having defeated the United Nations and the free world and the United States. He had certainly had weapons of mass destruction and had the capability of reviving his nuclear program. In light of what Iran is doing today with their nuclear program, he certainly would have gotten back on the stick and gotten there again..."

What does this even mean? Isn't this statement even more bizarre and wrongheaded than saying bin Laden is a symbolic leader?

Where is the outrage on this comment? Why have none of the major campaign blogs here at the CNN or the NYTimes told this story? Especially after the original quote was found right here on the political ticker!

Looks like Fred isnt getting any love from the crowd here on CNN. But I thought He's just a GOOD OL' BOY from Tennessee??? lol. You need all the help you can get Freddie. Seems like people keep leaving you for greener pastures. Best of luck to you, but I put my bet on Ron Paul as the next TRUE CONSERVATIVE PRESIDENT. NOt Neo Con. You may be from Tennessee, but lobbyist dont make trustworthy presidents the last time I checked. RON PAUL 08'!!!!